Omega-3 Fatty Acids That Affect the Immune System in Kidney Transplant Patients

Short-term survival rates of donor tissue after kidney transplantation have improved significantly in recent years because of improved immunosuppression. Rates of long-term tissue loss have changed less because of a high incidence of chronic rejection, infectious complications, and cardiovascular disease. Data suggest that both early and late complications might be reduced in transplant recipients by dietary intervention to raise levels of omega-3 fatty acids and arginine. Prior to transplantation, participants are randomized to one of three groups. Group 1 participants serve as controls and receive no dietary supplements. Participants in Group 2 receive daily nutritional supplements of arginine and canola oil according to body weight. Group 3 participants receive daily nutritional supplements of arginine and a fish oil emulsion according to body weight. All participants receive a standard, low-fat dietary consultation. The status of participants is evaluated peri-transplant and at 1, 3, 6, and 9 months.